Mechanics' Institute
Library · Union Square ·

Mechanics' Institute

Library · Union Square ·

Historic membership library, cultural events, and chess club

Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null
Mechanics' Institute by null

Information

57 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94104 Get directions

Information

Static Map

57 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94104 Get directions

+1 415 393 0101
milibrary.org
@milibrary

Features

wifi

Last updated

Nov 22, 2025

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@onthegrid
18,031 Postcards · 834 Cities

On the Grid : Mechanics' Institute Library

"Memberships. Has our society lost the meaning of the concept? Is life so fluid that committing to belonging somewhere is no longer relevant? Enter: the Mechanics’ Institute Library & Chess Room. What? Not a boutique gym? You want me to belong to a CHESS CLUB? Hang with us for a second... While yes, this is home to the oldest continuously operating chess club in the United States, the Mechanics’ Institute also offers anything a curious and creative mind could want to find in the heart of a city’s industrial skyrise center. From cultural events, film clubs, skill-based workshops, DVDs, books, computers, and a space to work/hang/read, the Mechanic’s Institute Library has it all. The rich history of the building and the library itself dates back to pre-SF earthquake days, back when being a “mechanic” meant anyone who worked with their hands. Its purpose was to serve as a place for an adult to learn a new skill: drawing, math, language, etc. Now, on top of the usual schedule of events, the library hosts a Tuesday night marathon which brings around 140 players almost every week. People from all ages and ethnicities come together to share an experience that was once won by a 12 year-old girl, and has included famous participants in the past such as Humphrey Bogart and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The beautiful thing about the chess tournaments is no matter who you are and where you come from, when all is said and done and it’s time to play: you just simply take a seat. A bonus gem to the building’s character lies in the lobby, where a mural sketched in 1906 and finished in 1917 pays homage to the mission: helping members with creative achievements. The theme nods to the history of the space, and items lost in the 1906 fire. Back then, the collection was heavy on the humanities, so the mural was commissioned to represent their rich cultural history and values. Featured in the mural is a building that many mistake for the Palace of Fine Arts, though while the designer of that building worked with the mural artist, the image predates the palace itself." - outlier

https://onthegrid.city/san-francisco/fidi/mechanics-institute
Mechanics' Institute
@onthegrid
18,031 Postcards · 834 Cities

"Mechanics' Institute Library, Fidi by outlier. Memberships. Has our society lost the meaning of the concept? Is life so fluid that committing to belonging somewhere is no longer relevant? Enter: the Mechanics’ Institute Library & Chess Room. What? Not a boutique gym? You want me to belong to a CHESS CLUB? Hang with us for a second...While yes, this is home to the oldest continuously operating chess club in the United States, the Mechanics’ Institute also offers anything a curious and creative mind could want to find in the heart of a city’s industrial skyrise center. From cultural events, film clubs, skill-based workshops, DVDs, books, computers, and a space to work/hang/read, the Mechanic’s Institute Library has it all. The rich history of the building and the library itself dates back to pre-SF earthquake days, back when being a “mechanic” meant anyone who worked with their hands. Its purpose was to serve as a place for an adult to learn a new skill: drawing, math, language, etc. Now, on top of the usual schedule of events, the library hosts a Tuesday night marathon which brings around 140 players almost every week. People from all ages and ethnicities come together to share an experience that was once won by a 12 year-old girl, and has included famous participants in the past such as Humphrey Bogart and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The beautiful thing about the chess tournaments is no matter who you are and where you come from, when all is said and done and it’s time to play: you just simply take a seat.A bonus gem to the building’s character lies in the lobby, where a mural sketched in 1906 and finished in 1917 pays homage to the mission: helping members with creative achievements. The theme nods to the history of the space, and items lost in the 1906 fire. Back then, the collection was heavy on the humanities, so the mural was commissioned to represent their rich cultural history and values. Featured in the mural is a building that many mistake for the Palace of Fine Arts, though while the designer of that building worked with the mural artist, the image predates the palace itself."

San Francisco
Mechanics' Institute
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"A quirky alfresco watering hole in the city’s nightlife district, appreciated for its outdoor setting and casual, social vibe." - SilverKris

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Mechanics' Institute

Laura Peters

Google
The Mechanics' Institute is a fabulous cultural hub in the city of San Francisco. It has a fantastic selection of books, a chess club, wonderful people, movie nights, literary talks, and much more.

Nick Zelei

Google
I visited the library for the first time today after hearing about it a week ago. There were only a handful of people on the 2nd floor and it was very quiet the entire time. Wifi was fast too. I'll have to check out the other floors the next time I come. I will say it was a bit awkward first arriving to buy a day pass. The door to the second floor is locked and is only accessible with a member's card. I had to kind of peer through to get the attention of a desk attendant. They opened the door and looked at me a bit strange until I asked them if they were still offering day passes. Not sure how to get around that in the future outside of purchasing a membership, which I may plan on doing anyways. Your day pass does count towards a membership if you buy it within a week of going.

Camille Ratliff Guzel

Google
Great quiet place to study. Bask in the history and ambiance of many talented writers, inventors and thinkers who have made this their scholarly home in the city. They have discounts for student membership. Membership includes library access and invitations to members events e.g., speaker series.

Rada

Google
For those who want to use the library to study or read, please be advised this is not a silent library. Librarians and people are always having meetings or talking. The environment here is closer to a cafe than a library.

Katrina L. Coker

Google
So I first visited to attend a guest lecture on world famous Grandmaster Shankland on Tues Jan 16. I know nothing about Chess but thought it was interesting, and even confirmed my desire to learn to plan. There was also an event the same day on "non-alcoholic beverage tasting." I would have gone to it but it was sold out. I went back Jan 17 for the scheduled 1 hour tour of the library, and I am so glad. The painting in the lobby examples what they stand for - creativity, nature, spirituality, and humanity. I felt all of it and, truly, while there, I felt whole. Shout-out to Alyssa, our tour guide who's soft spoken yet passionate tone made it joyful and easy to learn! Everyone should check this special place out!

Mishi Nova

Google
Love this library! Definitely my favorite place to be a member of for all time! Even when I don’t utilize the facilities of much as I’d like to I still feel good supporting them for existing. But when I do use the place and check out the book’s regularly, the price for the service is the best deal in town!

Patrick Larvie

Google
Nice building, and lots of potential. They offer an interesting tour of the building. Sadly, that’s where the positivity ends. As a library, they are unlikely to have what you’re looking for as the collections are limited and have many notable gaps in both reference and basic subject matter. The philosophy behind the library is archaic, inspired by the library's questionable leadership - how could they possibly be 50 years behind? This retro library vibe carries over to staff, who seem to take great pleasure in yelling across the room for patrons to be quiet, recreating the atmosphere of a seventh grade study hall. These library staff appear to have transferred from my junior high school. The collection is missing many local periodicals and basic reference materials. Perhaps most frustrating of all: poor technology. The library catalog is something out of the 1980s. The membership fee is maybe $100 per year and seems greatly overpriced relative to what they offer. There is a place in the world for subscription libraries, but this is not that place. If you happen to enjoy chess, maybe it's worth the fees. If not, take a pass on this one.

David Olsen

Google
Really cool historic library, and chess club.
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Alyanna C.

Yelp
Since being unemployed in the Bay Area thanks to recent layoffs... I've taken the opportunity to explore the city during the weekday. Specifically to do things that are only possible on the weekdays. Like exploring some historic buildings! The Mechanics Institute is one of the oldest institutions on the West Coast and this particular building had been around since 1910. It is a members only building, but they hold free public tours on Wednesdays at 12 pm weekly (sign up available online through their website): - During the tour you'll learn a little bit about the history of both the institution and SF, but you'll also learn about what it does today. You'll get to see the chess room, library, and some art deco architecture elements like the spiral staircase and glass dome ceiling. The Chess Room was fascinating since they talk about some notable members, like how the author of Queen's Gambit was a member of their Chess Club. - The tour time can range anywhere from 30 min to 1 hr depending on the questions that come up. However, they allow you to spend time afterwards exploring the library (or taking photos of the staircase) so you can hang out afterwards to look books, old magazines, or admire the collection of artwork they have on the walls. - During the tour you can go up / down the spiral staircase, but there is an elevator present for those who have difficulty walking up the floors. However some parts of the tour had us going through the library shelves and navigating stairs among the shelves. - Although the tour is an opportunity for them to showcase membership benefits... they are NOT pushy at all about selling memberships. However, if I were living near/in the city and working remotely... a membership would be a good option. It's very affordable compared to other private memberships and it's a quieter library than most public these days. They also have great WiFi and rooms available to do video conferencing, so it's a more affordable option than places like WeWork while still being in the city. Plus you can probably leave your stuff behind to run to the restroom quickly... something you can't really do working in free public places like a cafe or public library. This is on top of other benefits like members only events, etc. Honestly, this is a hidden gem in the city with historic significance - if I lived closer to the city and had a remote job, I would definitely look into getting a membership. Public libraries are still great, but I can see the benefits of a private library like this one. Cheers to funemployment and getting the opportunity to explore SF buildings!
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Quiet G.

Yelp
This is a beautiful gem. You can read old-fashioned books and find new media also. Not to mention attend lectures and films.
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Lisa W.

Yelp
I've never been to the actual place in downtown, but I can tell that this place is wonderful. This review is mainly for the chess room and the tournament that they hold annually for the kids. My children thoroughly enjoyed this free event held at the exhibition center at Golden Gate Park on 3/30/2024. The team worked tirelessly leading to this event, from holding a zoom presentation, inviting various groups to provide info about their organization, having SFPL book mobile, and the best part, having Paul Whitehead play 20 chess games at once. It was quite a spectacle. I appreciate this organization for hosting such a large event for the kids because it builds confidence in them and remember to have fun. Thank you MI for hosting such a wonderful event!
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Bali N.

Yelp
A beautiful general interest private library ($120/yr) near Union Square offering a lovely environment to work or study in plus many interesting cultural events--the 2023 Le Jazz Hot Quartet concert I attended celebrating July 14th (France's national celebration, often called Bastille Day in the US) was great, as were all the authors' readings of their work. Adam Hochschild's "American Midnight" was particularly impressive. The library also hosts a CinemaLit series and has a chess club. Most events are free to members while others (such as some concerts) are discounted. The view of the spiral staircase looking down from the 4th floor is amazing.
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Ed U.

Yelp
Remember way back when you could go to your public library and hang out for hours reading a stack of books in relative peace? Theoretically you can still do that...if you can find an open chair. A lot of homeless people understandably park themselves, at least at the Main Library, and it starts to feel more like a bus station. Yet another issue that our elected city officials are ignoring, but I digress. I suppose I could just stay home and download books on my Kindle, but I still like the idea of a library. Jamie W. became a member here months earlier than I did, and I accompanied him once only to be jettisoned loudly like I was a freeloading vagrant. I was embittered enough by the experience to avoid the place for months before realizing in the middle of my diet regimen that hanging out here was a healthier option than wolfing a burger and fries somewhere else. So I swallowed my pride and invested the $95 for an annual membership. I haven't looked back as this truly is a satisfying spot to chill in the middle of the FiDi just outside the Montgomery Street BART station. You sign in where the security guard gives you the once-over and take the elevator up to the two floors that make up the Gold Rush era library (photo: http://bit.ly/2uL1bdb). There are over 175,000 books within the stacks and just for the mechanically inclined. I was able to find quite a collection of travel tomes for a trip to Iceland I was planning. That was a lovely trip but another story on another social channel since Yelp isn't in Iceland. The big naugahyde chairs are most inviting here and for many people, so are the PC stations for a lot of people looking to connect. Up on the fourth floor is the chess club (photo: http://bit.ly/2vc2C5g) and where they have lectures and movie showings. Although I've never been there when the snack counter is open, you can also bring your lunch and eat up there when it's not being used. At least that's what I noticed when I was hanging up there. It's open until 9PM during the week and 5PM on weekends.
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Pasquale G.

Yelp
This place a gem in the whole city. I have spend many hours, days here. I cannot say too many good things. One time I went to the famous chess club because I have read several chess books and was feeling strong and confident. Then an 8 year old girl sits down and I am thinking "I don't want to hurt her feelings, I must be careful and maybe she will learn a few things." About 6 moves later she has my Queen pinned and is in control of board. She is smiling at me like insane demon. Then her mother bring a Juice to her. You're not supposed to have beverages in the chess room, I was thinking.
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Denise C.

Yelp
I went back to the Mechanics' Institute this year in 2019 for the Daniel Handler reading event for his new book. He has a membership to the Mechanics' Institute. I liked the event and they had some snacks. It was attended pretty well. I like visiting the Mechanics' Institute because it is old-fashioned and scholarly. It's worth visiting and it can a hidden secret. Future generations may not be like the older people who attend this center.
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Shane S.

Yelp
A quiet & clean oasis in the heart of San Francisco's bustling Financial District. Well curated as is quality over quantity here. Since it is a private library they listen to member's suggestions as have requested a few items that were ordered & put on hold for me w/ a quick turnaround. The reading room w/ comfortable chairs under the stained glass is near wild heaven & is the best place to play chess in San Francisco as they are the oldest continuously operating chess club in the United States.
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Adrianna T.

Yelp
This is a fabulous private library with an interesting history and cool setup. Pay $15 for the day pass to try it out, or commit to an annual membership if you live here and want to use their facilities or take part in their events. The WiFi is fast and there's printing on-site. Lots of newspapers and magazines too.
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Jonah R.

Yelp
Excellent library and chess club, accessible for a yearly subscription of $100. If you need a private place to work during the day, or heck sometimes it just pays to have access clean and easily accessible bathroom in the middle of downtown! They also have subscriptions to just about every magazine that exists and many international newspapers. Also excellent art, engineering, and finance collections. Trust me this place is a treasure. And not to keep going on about the bathrooms, but their soap smells really good. Reminisencent of something like a grandfather's cologne.
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Richard S.

Yelp
WooHoo! As good as it gets! That's the definition of a 5 star rating and I apply it here: The character and ambience one feels upon entering the high ceilinged 2nd and 3rd (library) floors provide a certain sense of peace and comfort not present in modern buildings. There are the library offerings of books, AV, and downloadables (see milibrary.org); the good offering of newspapers; deep leather/naugahyde chairs; tables for working or reading; library computers to access the internet; two classrooms (usually open for non-class use) with tables set up for your laptop computer use with private WiFi connections. A large chess room with photos of competitions and champions back to the 1890's; a Friday night movie series with a curator, post film discussion and a theme for the movies of each month. A conscientious staff. Once, I left my hat here. A librarian recognized it and kept it for me (I returned two weeks later) rather than put it in lost and found. How did I discover the mechanics' Institute: Soon after I moved to San Francisco an acquaintance identified it for me as a "hidden gem". If it fits your needs it is a Bargain: I looked at the financials. Dues cover about 1/9th of the operating costs. The rest comes, I suspect, from endowment and rents as the MI owns the building it occupies and rents out several floors.
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Jana C.

Yelp
My friend Lisa M first mentioned this private library to me well over a year ago. I was so incredibly bowled over by the lovely and unique architecture of this historic library on Sat--having walked in for the first time and beheld the indescribable spiral view up to the top from the base of the staircase--I'm headed to a noon architectural tour there tomorrow. I need time with this puppy; it's a pure gift that we get to enjoy this kind of testament that stands the test of time. Segue: there's a chess room here (shhhHH! I play... decently too!) can't wait for the sunrise... PS Tours held every Wednesday, 3/F, at noon PPS Beat the founding of my alma mater across the Bay by about a decade
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Ellen M.

Yelp
A wonderful San Francisco institution. It's beautiful building is well worth a visit but stay for the convenient location and the serenity of the reading space. Well worth the low annual membership cost.
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Frank W.

Yelp
This private library is to the public library what a fancy airline lounge is to the airport. It's clean, quiet, safe, relaxed, and secluded. There was a time when this type of institution was prominent in civic life, and they've vanished, which is too bad. The price is quite reasonable, so if you have qualms about exclusivity, you can still feel right at home in liberal San Francisco -- it's $95 per year. This is about 2% of the fee for a private club. There is another reason to join here. There is no library branch in the Financial District. I work in the City, but not right in the Financial District. My work takes me there often, but it's a hassle to go back to my office between appointments and hanging out at a coffee shop is for students. So for me, this is a place I am able to duck into to get some work done. There is wifi, too (password protected). Highly recommended.
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Infodiva B.

Yelp
A invaluable professional business library in the heart of the financial district is how I categorized the Mechanics' Institute Library. The membership affords you an elite and private library experience and attention to detail for patrons. The library has a diverse collection: Art, Manga, Biography, Fiction, politics, and language for instance. I find the reference and business collections phenomenal. Databases, Maps, Encyclopedia, on a variety of topics in addition to a plethora of books for a employment transition or a new career. Taryn Schlageter, Reference Librarian has compiled an timely list for "Back to School" patrons One entry is the Occupational Outlook Handbook 331.7 U58 The library also houses excellent International Business books for example: "Doing Business in 21st century India: how to profit today in tomorrow's most exciting market," by Gunjan Bagla Call No. 338.88 B14 I have been a member of this historical library since 1995. The Special Libraries Association holds its meetings and parties in the upper floors. Many times I had a search request for a source that was not online and had to go and crack a book. There is a lovely cafe and chess room also in the upper non-library levels. There are tours offered of the facilities if you would like to see the beauty and architecture of the building. The Mechanics' Institute building houses the oldest library on the West Coast and one of the oldest chess clubs in the United States. It was organized in 1854 when San Francisco was a frontier community far removed from anywhere by a small group of citizens as a center for adult technical education. http://www.milibrary.org THE STEREOPTICON is a monthly newsletter that publishes the library's new acquisitions to the catalog aka the New Titles list . This library has the BEST Description & Travel section in the city. A new book is: Staying Safe Abroad: traveling, working and living in a post-9/11 world, by Edward L. Lee II 910.2 L477 Check out the library catalog http://search.milibrary.org online to see for yourself what GEM we have in San Francisco.

Ena T.

Yelp
I went to an event and was surprised to see how big the library is. From the outside, you can't imagine its size. There are two floors of books, newspapers, audio, DVDs... in a very quiet space with large windows. I think can also request books through the Link+ from other libraries. They also offer writing and chess classes. Staff was very friendly in letting me look around. Restrooms and tables were all clean and well maintained. I don't think I will become a member, but I will definitely return to attend their events.
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Marshal L.

Yelp
(minor update 09/30) It has been awhile since I have reviewed the library. The recent increase of web access speed has been a great bonus. They have installed fiber optics into the walls of their building. Those who are operating in the S/F downtown area and are in need of a quiet place to re-focus oneself or to read, one should consider the M.I. Library. Unlike the SFPL or other downtown places, this is a superb "virtual near-noiseless sanctuary" for those who liked to reconstitute themselves in a near perfect tranquil terrain. That is a "major" positive for "thinking" readers. The library is a super place for researchers and code cutters.who need a locale to center their attention toward their current task-objectives /// My favorite space in the library is the near invisible desk that is located at the level between the 2nd floor and 3rd floor. The access of the various cyber databases (competitive intelligence, financials, etc,) is useful for those who are in the research profession. /// However, I agreed with Max H, another reviewer and wished that they increase the quantity of "real" science, engineering and technology books. Talking about the general interest or the philosophy of those subject matters are what the neophytes and the amateurs have specialized in. ... To be a "true intellectual" mechanic with a pragmatic perspective, one must have access to those types of resources. .... /// I am not a participant of their social events.or their chess events because I am quite busy w/ my own professional endeavors. However, the events seem to be quite cordial and pleasant. /// In summary, the Mechanics Institute Library is a superb place to operate from, especially at the end of the day or during the weekend. The serenity of this space is superb. ... It is the perfect virtual office with the classic feel in "the city by the bay." /// To the future members of this fine institute, Joining the Mechanics is one of the best $100 that you have invested in .. (This is a better local investment than the over-rated KQED.) As mentioned previously. I offered the same suggestion to current and new members: Buy a t-shirt to support the library.

Kimberly L.

Yelp
Found this library's event lineup online and signed up for a film salon on zoom that is part of their ongoing cinema group. The first person to speak was a woman who is apparently a regular in this group, and she began with an awful rant about the film in question, and concluded that the work was "stupid." I suggested that we be respectful in tone of someone's creative work, even if it wasn't our cup of tea, and use other vocabulary to express displeasure. The moderator said that this type of talk was okay, and the woman who spoke said she stood by the word "stupid." Expected a much more erudite, higher-level discussion of an acclaimed, nuanced film from this landmark library. I signed off. If you're looking for a thoughtful discussion of film, this might not be the one. Disappointed.
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Yuriy P.

Yelp
Mechanics Institute is a very nice alternative place to sit and read in a quiet environment. The book selection is very limited and the available books are very strange selection of books. I've intentionally searched for certain topics and authors to see whether I'd find at least somewhat equal selection on opposing topics. For example you will find a very wide selection of books and authors who are Marxist and socialists. When I search for famous authors who promote free markets and capitalism I find a very books. Even for such known and famous economist and author like Milton Friedman. I've found only ONE only ONE book by him and another written by someone about him. That's it! No books by Ludwig Von Mises either. This is very disturbing. At least there are some Ron Paul books. But his books don't really have high academic value unlike others mentioned above. Another example is books by famous atheists and books by famous theists. I've found literally dozens of books by atheists like Hitchens, Dawkins, and Harris. And I've only found no more than five books from modern theist philosophers like William Craig or John Lennox, and only one book by Phillip Johnson. Zilch! I've researched this topic and know that there is wealth of books on theism from academic sources and accredited philosophers. I am excluding various pastors. This is a very bad sign for any library. If you imagine someone researching "theology" or "religion" generally speaking and if you offer a wide selection of atheists (two of whom are socialists as well) then you should at least provide some books from the opposing views. The chess room is good and probably the reason for half of the memberships. There is no other place where you can come at most times of day on any day of the week and play some chess with other friendly players. There are players of all ages and personalities. U fortunately many of them are angry or unsociable. Some are former street chess hustlers and some of them can be rude. The library also has hundreds of chess books. So at least that is good.
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Mit M.

Yelp
Over a decade ago I used to work at the New Main Library in SF. I worked there before it opened and then about 5 years after that. After about 3 weeks of working at the then New Main Library, I quit using the public areas. I'll leave it up to your imagination of why I quit using the public areas. Let's just say I had a key card and I could get wherever I wanted without ever seeing a library patron. Please note, just because someone is walking around with a key card, doesn't mean they know (or will tell you) where Danielle Steele is kept. Have you tried fiction, under S? No, I will not walk you there. You are a grown person and you are able to read, so I have faith you can find it yourself. I joined the Mechanics' Institute while I was working at the Main and have been a member ever since. It is a beautiful building inside and out. The inside has gorgeous ornate ironwork and leather chairs. Books are shelved appropriately and there is no one trying to steal your purse or blow crack smoke at you. Not one person has died in this building that I am aware of. Every time I have visited, no one has threatened and/or solicited me, unlike at some libraries I've been to. In retrospect, I expected this kind of thing when I was in The Stacks at the Old Main but when the New Main opened, I was hoping for some type of change for the better. It only got worse, with many more bomb threats. You read correctly, BOMB THREATS. After the New Main opened, we had bomb threats at least once a week. This means you have to drop everything and run out of the building.This was very disruptive if you were working on an important project. A few times the SF Bomb Squad actually found explosive devices. Many times it was someone's lunch or a pet squirrel in a gym bag....don't ask.... The emergency alarms especially sucked because at that time, we had 4 pregnant ladies on our floor. Have you ever tried to hurry a gigantic pregnant lady down a flight of stairs, let alone 4 gigantic pregnant ladies? It is a nightmare for everyone. "Why?" you ask? Why would someone want to blow up a newly built library? Well, apparently it was all over the paper card catalog. Luddites http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/3.06/saleskelly.html wanted us to keep the paper card catalog and since we didn't, they decided to blow up the entire building and everyone in it. There is no logic to this, so don't even try to figure it out. Anyhoo, the Mechanics' Institute is a relaxing and quiet place, as libraries should be. I have seen lectures, films, live jazz performances and even checked out books. All the books are accounted for and easy to find. I couldn't wish for a better private library.
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Kristina R.

Yelp
"The oldest operating chess club in the United States" is prominently displayed on a plaque in the hallway of the fourth floor, where the chess club resides. A couple of men looking like they just discovered a new type of magic greatsword in Dungeons and Dragons for slaying ogres out of Droaam walked by as we approached the doors. Although the sign on the door read "MEMBERS ONLY" I took a peek anyway...what were these chess dudes gonna do...bum rush me? Throw their knights and pawns at my head and give me a nasty welt? Bah! I walked in and looked around like a dorky tourist. One of the five people inside immediately made eye contact and asked, "wanna play a game?" I averted my eyes, did my best Asian girl giggle, and pretended I didn't understand. The room itself is pretty rad. There are old tables from the early 1900's still sitting in their places after all these years, set up perfectly with chess pieces in good condition. The flyers on the table by the door were much friendlier than the club seemed it would be. They offered tournaments, amature contests, women's chess lessons, children's camps...a little chess for anyone and everyone who was willing to venture into the intimidating doors of the Chess Club. Being that I am not Waverly from the Joy Luck Club, I did NOT choose to partake in a beginner's class. But I may come back to pereuse the fabulous old photos of Bobby Fischer and random genius Russian chess players from the 50's. So cool!
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Charlye W.

Yelp
I originally shelled out the $95 dollar annual fee for nearby Financial District access to wi-fi. Then I grew increasingly fond of the place. Several things I thought you'd like to know: 1. They have an awesome selection of magazines, which they allow patrons to check out for one-week periods. I get my BART reading here, then return it a few days later. 2. Most staff are friendly and knowledgeable. They know their stuff and want to share it. I have two favorites on the third floor and seeing them usually makes my day cheerier. 3. Membership includes online (from anywhere, including your home) access to InfoTrac, ProQuest and other subscription only databases. There are 1,000+ periodicals listed, and some -- including Consumer Reports-- often include scanned page views. Other examples of on-line magazines available include Parenting, Highlights for Children, O, Barrons and The Economist. http://www.milibrary.org. 4. Needless to say, they have books. I love the technology section, where I've discovered several good PC books. They also sell the books and magazines that have passed their premium age. 5. Educational classes - The library routinely has classes in internet use and research techniques. They're also big into chess, and offer workshops. (Granted, if you're yelping, you probably don't need internet classes) 6. Internet access. In addition to wi-fi, you can use their desktop PCs too. There are at least six terminals, and I've rarely found them full, even at lunch hour.
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David P.

Yelp
Love this place...one of The City's treasures that many people don't know exists. I worked less than one block from 57 Post for almost ten years and didn't really know the place existed... Great library. Quiet. Clean - less "fragrant' than SFPL, ahem. Tad old fashioned - which is nice. Couple of oddball regulars but I'm sure they think the same of me. Some FiDi workers use it as a quiet haven - me among them. Handful of savvy students also. Extensive research library upstairs and comfy leather chairs downstairs to read the papers & periodicals and pretend to "rest the eyes" for twenty minutes. Great DVD collection and very liberal lending policies. Well worth less than eight bucks a month. Support this SF institution!
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Camper E.

Yelp
Just think of it, a library the homeless don't treat as a public bath! After spending several hours at the main library in the company of just-out-of-prison guys using the place as their rec room, homeless gays making out with each other across from me at the table, jerks who think it's okay to shout while using their cell phone as long as they have their earpiece in, and everyone smelling horribly; not being able to leave your coat while you get another book because you know it will be stolen, and having all the ads in magazines with anyone showing skin stamped with a big "PROPERTY OF SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY" on them so perverts won't rip them out to use as an aid for self-pleasure, I had had enough. I joined the Mechanic's Institute, paid my 95 bucks a year, and I love it. The MI Library has been around for 150 years and is housed in a beautiful old building downtown with 3-story windows, narrow stairways leading up to balcony levels jammed with books, big wooden desks, and comfortable leather chairs. I always feel like I should be drinking brandy and smoking cigars in there, as it looks most like an old-world private gentlemen's club. The place is deluxe. Most of the members are very, very, very old but the selection of books, magazines, and videos is both current and relevant to people under 80 as well. I use it as a DVD rental place, as a place to hang out and read magazines, to borrow books on CD to put into my mp3 player, and for research. I get my money's worth. It is unfortunate that the public library is unusable by all but the dregs of society. But with the Mechanic's Institute you're not just paying to avoid the riff raff, you're paying for a downtown private oasis; a touch of class.
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Ian F.

Yelp
It's a nice, if somewhat ramshackle, old library. Not exactly up-to-date, but a good place to sit and work in downtown San Francisco if one does not have an office there and does not belong to a club. Many of the clientele aren't exactly hip, but so what? Nerds are people, too! On the minus side, the librarians can be bad tempered sometimes.
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Brian C.

Yelp
Like others have mentioned, the Main Public Library is not a fun experience. I primarily use the Main Library by going online and putting materials on hold (then hope that the item isn't lost or stolen) and pick it up at the self-serve checkout counter. The public library is also great for downloading ebooks or audiobooks. The Main Libraryy is not a place to relax in a quiet setting, a major city Greyhound station is what comes to mind as a comparison. Which isn't to say the Main Library doesn't provide a valuable community service, so does the DMV and the bus terminal - I just don't want to spend any more time there than required. The Mechanic's Institute Library is a quiet place to retreat, like a hidden sanctuary in the middle of the city - around the corner fromt the Montgomery BART/MUNI station. It provides a place to get away from our tiny apartment and read from a large collection books, magazines (you can actually check out the magazines) and selection of newspapers. It's quiet and cozy (maybe a little outdated, but not too bad) with plenty of large leather chairs and tables. It beats both the public library and Borders to sit and read, work or study. My favorite thing is the travel section, it's up-to-date and they have an extensive selection.
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Nish N.

Yelp
This is one of those lost gems in San Francisco. It's a little dated, as our some of the members, but it's a great resource nonetheless. Their library offers up some great history about the city, and their Cinemalit Series reminds me that their are still intellectuals in San Francisco. I first found out about the Mechanic's Institute after inquiring about their intense but friendly chess club. You can see some serious chess gamesmanship take place here, or come in for a few pick-up games. Worth checking out.
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Alison M.

Yelp
I've been a card-carrying nerd since before I could talk, and thus I generally love all libraries, just on principle. So it struck me as a bit elitist to pay to join a library, when the main public library in SF is so huge and pretty. However, as soon as I walked in here, smelled the old-book smell, and took one turn into the narrow, meandering stacks, I joined immediately. And now I have a real nerd-card to carry: my membership card! MIL is small but it has a lot tucked away within the multi-leveled balconies. It's also quiet, which is my main purpose for coming: to have somewhere to study for the GRE where I can actually focus on re-learning the geometry I forgot 16 years ago, without buying a latte or listening to someone's favorite new alt-country whatever at the local cafe. I have yet to check out their other services, but I'm so excited about this new discovery!
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Max H.

Yelp
The space is beautiful, but the book selection left me disappointed. I'm sure there was a time when the Mechanics Institute Library was a good place for mechanics and inventors to do research. This certainly isn't the case today. Most of the library's science and engineering books are written for general interest or deal with the philosophical side of science. Given the library's history, I had hoped to find technical books about gears, engines, and engineering. That said, the library's selection of books involving philosophy and countercultural history is excellent. I found books that dove deep into the philosophy of Heidegger and the historical reverberations of 1960s San Francisco. I just wish the depth found in the soft sciences section of the library extended to engineering topics, especially given the library's rich history.
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Chiara A.

Yelp
Quiet please. Thank you. This was a discovery of The Mother's. The Mother has been a long time member of Mechanics Institute during her days as an attorney aka solicitor. When I returned to academia, she converted her membership into a family membership. The Mother and The Sibling have been long time members of Mechanics Institute. They are familiar faces amongst the kind, patient, and professional staff there as well. When they found out I was a member of the family, those amenities were awarded to me as well. Oh, I best be on my best behaviour and uphold The Family Name of being on time and prompt. This place has become my secret treasure trove of resources. I have found many DVD's and books that I would not be able to find in the public libraries or in the libraries on campus. Not to mention, the quiet, tranquil and peaceful factor here at Mechanics Institute. I could spend the whole day studying here as opposed to the public and college libraries. Here, quiet is the norm whereas in the aforementioned other libraries, I would have to shoot a dirty look at the chatters and magpies. I was here the other day to return a book on Jean Renoir and perusing my cinema genre reader for four hours at Mechanics Institute. And The Mother rung me up on my mobile wondering where the heck I was. I had to make a mad dash out of this library to talk to her. Yes, I forgot to put the mobile on silent. Silly Moi. The Mother was shocked that I was there all that time for four long hours. Well . . . it is a quiet refuge from home as well as a quiet place to study; there are times I have to be away from Dolcita barking at me. (Translation: Dolcita yelling at me.)
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Teresa S.

Yelp
I joined this private library earlier this year and I just love it. Beautiful, quiet oasis in the heart of downtown and a wonderful collection. The staff is superb as well. At $95 per year for a single member it's more than worth it.
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Amy C.

Yelp
This is what I remember libraries being like. Books are listed as available when you look them up. It's clean and quiet and the bathrooms function. The stacks are intimate and crowded. That you need to sign in just to get in the building on the weekends is a bonus. I like a place where books are still treated well and $150 for two people for a year is not that much to pay. If I had to buy all the books I can't check out of the SF public Library since they are listed as "MISSING - BILLED" then it would certainly add up to more than the membership costs here. Hours are somewhat limited on the weekend but they are open late during the week. I look forward to my next literary perusal in their leather chairs. Wish they still had the original light fixtures though - the fluorescents are tough.
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Marjorie B.

Yelp
I love the public library system, and I still frequent it. Yet, you can't beat the Mechanics' Institute Library when you're looking for a quiet place to read, and be around some kindly and sage elderly folk (mainly grandfather types, which I like). Odd that for an institute that began as a forum for the discussion and development of technological advances, their website is extremely simple, and many of their classes have to do with teaching people how to use email and search engine. Still, there's something inherent about the MI that makes me a bit proud to carry their simple card. Maybe you imagine a history rooted in the arcane, a little like the Bohemian club. Maybe you like the idea of being associated with a chess club that has seen the likes of Spassky or maybe Fischer Incognito or Kasparov or other GMs playing and speaking in its rooms. They have cinemalit series and a women's chess class and other various events on their calendar I'll drop by and attend. If you decide to join, let me know... I'm looking for some company that would help me improve my chess skills (or lack thereof) other than the 10 year olds that would kick my ass with their smug "mate-in-10"s!
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Chloe N.

Yelp
I came home to San Francisco to work on my grad school dissertation, but I knew that if I just stayed at my parents' place I'd never be able to focus on research and writing. I needed an "office"! I was at a loss as to where to go because the public libraries are not nearly quiet or calm enough, nor do they really have the more secluded work space I wanted. Luckily my parents are members of the Mechanics Insitute library, and they suggested I join ($35 for the entire year for students!). It has been a godsend. The architecture of the building itself is gorgeous, and they offer every possible amenity you could want in terms of books, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, internet, periodicals, and journal databases (YAY JSTOR!). They also have wonderful small-scale wood-paneled rooms with big library tables and comfortable chairs that are perfect for buckling down to work. The icing on the cake is that even when I return to grad school, I'll be able to access many of their books via the internet and download them onto my Kindle! So even though I won't be in the same city, I can enjoy my membership. But if I lived in San Francisco and worked downtown, I think I'd be there every day!
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Arthur C.

Yelp
The Mechanics' Institute Library and Chess Room is a historic building located in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District. Located right next to Montgomery BART station, its easily accessible for everyone. Its unassuming exterior leads you in to a narrow foyer from where you can see everything looks a little smaller and feels a little older. Everything sort of gives off a sense of nostalgia, from the marble floors to the oak doors and trimmings. It's a very interesting feeling walking into somethings so old. That environment is a great place to get a few books and find a chair for a good read. Its also a great place to do some research. The ambience almost makes you want to learn and read. The Chess Room on the 4th floor is also great. I have not played there, but theres plenty of tables and they offer a ton of classes and events. There were a bunch of older gentlemen locked in a few games when I went to check it out. The walls are lined with old newspaper clippings and pictures that date as far back as the early 1900s. They often have book readings and discussions in the library and everyone is very helpful in a grandmotherly way. Its a lovely library and a great part of San Francisco history. Definitely worth a look as they also offer free tours.
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Curran H.

Yelp
Years ago, before I had joined any private clubs, I used to half-facetiously refer to the MI Library as "my club". After all, it has some of the attributes of a gentleman's private club -- overstuffed armchairs in a quiet and traditional environment, good reading materials at hand, and it's closed to any but members. OK, a bar would've been nice, but still -- for those who like to imagine that they're relaxing in the Traveller's Club or some other Pall Mall or St. James clubhouse, the MI Library is a very pleasant and low-cost alternative. There are a few quibbles I harbor, such as the fact that I've had to endure a few people speaking on their cell phones in the stacks (their voices were quiet, but still...), and I've clonked myself more than once on the low iron beams in the mezzanine. And finally, some of the staff are a bit more brusque than they used to be. I'd be inclined to give them 4 stars on those merits, but I have to give the Library an extra star for its ambiance, simply having endured for more than a century, and for keeping up their collection with so many new and thoughtfully selected books. And at just under $100 per annum, it's a hell of a bargain!
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Noel Q.

Yelp
Great too see historical libraries like this. I love this place because i am an old geek.... :)
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Baran E.

Yelp
Heart of the Bay Area chess circles. There hasn't been been a chess player who lived in the area and did not play here. The only drawback is the limited space, especially during the Tuesday Night Marathon rounds.
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Zac S.

Yelp
A super cool and groovy mainstay for the SF chess circuit. It's not Hastings, or Iceland, or even Bangkok, but it's still a way intense and scenic locale for a game of chess or even just watching one. Yes, chess can be a spectator sport if you're able to follow the moves and know an Evans Gambit from a traditional opening. It's a virtual time machine in here.

Richard W.

Yelp
Like so much of San Francisco the library is being infected by hipsters and fauxhemians! Like all native San Franciscans ( born at Pacific Presbytarian) I hate hipster. Those nasty spawn from the suburbs who are slowly destroying the culture and character of the City with their smugness and their conceit. Now they've finally infected one of the last bastions of old San Francisco. Where blue collar Mission ribs shoulders with Finacial District.Where people are left alone as long as they don't bother anyone else. As I write this a lumber jack bearded lollipop bodied hipster is sipping on his Starbucks lemonade tapping away on his MacBook pro loudly talking gibberish to his skinny sullen tattoo'd "I hate my parents because the give me everything" H&M wearing girlfriend. Hopefully their trust fund or their student loan at the Art Institute or their parents patience will run out and they'll go back to whatever McMansion'd hell they oozed out of. Ah heck we survived the dot.com pukes we will survive these people. If you are NOT a hipster, this is why you should join the library. Like everyone has already said its clean quiet and has books, some very rare. It filled with old guys and soon to be old guys (me) quietly mind their own business and using the library as its meant to be used not like a coffe shop (So shut your pie hole!) I've been a member of the chess club since Brown was governor the first time and a member of the library since before Bush was president, the old Bush.
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Jen C.

Yelp
I wish I had known about this library earlier. I needed a quiet place to study for my upcoming board exam, but was getting sick of being at the school library day in and day out. I did a Yelp search for libraries and found this great gem. I pay the $35 student membership, but it's well worth it if you consider the convenience (steps away from Montgomery station), good hours, peace-and-quiet, safety, clean bathrooms, and free wi-fi.
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Noel J.

Yelp
wonderful and thoughtful selection of books. a refuge from the tech mess overload in downtown. the membership is worth every penny. love this place.
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Lisa M.

Yelp
I haven't really explored this library yet so I can only comment on my general impression of it and the ambiance. Very austere and formal place which reminds me of some of the smaller libraries at Cal. Lots of large tables, cushioned chairs, and smaller tables scattered throughout. I can see how it's a nice quiet oasis in the loud confusion which is Downtown SF though. I was there to finish some paperwork with my coworker and we were told that we were being too loud. It's a nice sign when a library enforces the no noise policy.

Will S.

Yelp
As a library it's far more effective than the SFPL, as it's possible to sit down and study and not be bothered by anyone, most of the time. They keep late hours, they have a cafe upstairs, and it's warm. There are three significant drawbacks, however: First: the wifi is terrible, to the point where it takes minutes to download a megabyte PDF file. I've tried reading digital books from the SFPL's Safari Techbooks Online subscription (which is awesome and the best way to pick up a new tech skill), and you literally can't read a digital book from the wifi. Second: there are a number of older people who engage in unsettling habits in public -- and by unsettling, I don't mean anything as prosaic as farting loudly and repeatedly, or coughing, or answering cellphones in the middle of a library. I mean repeatedly smacking and licking lips, or whispering to themselves. Third: I know I'm not their target market, but they don't have a strong science fiction section. Apart from that, awesome and well worth the $95 a year.
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Carolyn K.

Yelp
As the other reviews attest, the Mechanics Institute Library is an incredible resource in the heart of downtown. It's a private library with a membership fee but the resources (books, magazines (both hard copy and limited e-versions; online databases; classes; events, etc etc) more than for the under $100 annual dues. Join this Library if you want access to top-quality information - both digital and paper - in a beautiful historic building!
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David L.

Yelp
The MIL, which was built in 1854, is one of the better kept booknooks in San Francisco -- for $90 a year, one gains access to a world-class facility on par with any Ivy League aetheneum. Some of the better perks: free DVD loans from a collection of thousands; five racks of classical and jazz CDs to burn; several biweekly writers' groups stocked with published authors (many novelists, no belletrists); blazing-fast, free wireless; free wine tastings upstairs; one of the best chess rooms on the West Coast; and, of course, six silent stories of books bereft of crazies. They have all the best works, modern and ancient. If you like reading or writing, you should join.
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Brandon L.

Yelp
I stumbled across this downtown library from a A-frame sign on the sidewalk a few years ago. This private library is so awesome from the architecture to the selection. It's in a historic building on different levels and has books on just about everything. Most of the people here are older and retired and needing somewhere to go and something to do.
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Taylor D.

Yelp
I can't say enough about Mechanic's Institute. It is well worth the membership fee. It has a fabulous selection of books and DVDs. Great selection of new fiction and non-fiction. Great selection of current travel books. Lots of great DVDs and graphic novels. When I visit, I am inspired to read by not only the wonderful books, but the beautiful architecture, the nooks and crannies and hidden study areas. Clean bathrooms. Free wi-fi, lots of seating. Wonderful talks on a periodic basis that are free for members. Again, I just love this place. The membership fee is well worth it -- heck the free DVD rentals make it worth it alone (not to mention all the free proprietary databases) - and the membership fee also ensures that all of the visitors are respectful of the space and brought equal joy in being a member.
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Patrick A.

Yelp
This is where Jesus would read the paper every day. (were he not addicted to drudgereport.com)